Exploring Reno Tahoe’s Mountain Biking Trails

One of the best ways to explore the diverse landscapes of Reno Tahoe is on two wheels. This region offers endless opportunities for mountain bikers – from beginners to those seeking an adrenaline rush. Take a ride along the alpine, desert and lake on groomed trails or more challenging terrain, and discover miles of stunningly beautiful views and hidden gems you can’t experience any other way.

Lake Tahoe Mountain Biking Trails

Tahoe Rim Trail runs 168 miles along the edges of Lake Tahoe. Because the trail is so long, it is divided into a several sections and many cater to mountain bikers. The trail is a mixture of sand and silt, with a few steep climbs and downhill descents, making it a perfect option for riders of various levels.

While the Tahoe Rim Trail offers more advanced terrain in some areas, Picnic Rock Vista Ride is ideal for riders looking for an easier route. This 3-mile round-trip trail is on the north shore of Lake Tahoe and offers riders views of pine forests and Lake Tahoe. For a moderate trail, McCloud Falls Ride offers a pleasant ride as you pass through colorful wildflowers and an uphill climb on rocky stairs rewards you with a hidden waterfall. This trail is 6.4 miles round-trip, and the trailhead can be accessed from the west shore of Lake Tahoe.

Head south on the Tahoe Rim Trail until you come to the first vista point and turn left to gain access to the Tyrolean Downhill trail. This trail is for an intermediate to advanced rider, who is experienced navigating steep descents and hills. There are optional rocks and hills on the way down for those who want a little more action.

The Flume Trail is probably one of the most well-known mountain biking trails near Lake Tahoe, with beautiful views along the entire trail. Some climbs along the route are challenging, but overall the trail is quite suitable for intermediate riders. Starting at Spooner Lake State Park, the trail heads north towards Incline Village, dropping into a trailhead at Tunnel Creek Cafe. You can ride this as a one-way as there is a shuttle service between the locations, or ride it as a loop, heading back to Spooner Lake along the Tahoe Rim Trail.

Reno Mountain Biking Trails

Under endless, sunny skies and surrounded by desert beauty, mountain biking in Reno-Sparks is just as relaxing as it is breathtaking. Once you’re in the middle of your adventure, you’ll find the region’s hills open up for you in unexpected ways.

Peavine Mountain ranges from 4,900 ft to 8,266 ft. in elevation, with many trails to choose from, suited to any level. You can access the trailheads along the southeast portion of the mountain, where it rises from the neighborhoods of northwest Reno and Rancho San Rafael Park.

If you’re looking for fun climbs and technical obstacles, Halo – Crispy Bacon Loop will give you the adventure you need. To access this trailhead, park in the neighborhood on Kings Row and begin to climb the Halo Trail. It is slightly hidden so you will have to continue west on Halo Trail from the parking area until you come to an intersection, then continue left and you will be on Crispy Bacon Trail.

South Reno offers a selection of mountain biking trails near the forested Galena Creek. The Dry Pond Loop is a popular mountain biking spot at the base of Mount Rose and features terrain ranging from a challenging climb to an exhilarating descent through the forest along Whites Creek and Thomas Creek. This 7-mile loop is also a favorite for hikers and trail runners, so be aware of the rules of the trail when you encounter others. North Ballardini Ranch Trail is a short, 2-mile single track that connects the Ballardini Open Space to Galena and can be ridden in either direction, with a moderate five to 10 percent grade.

East of Reno is Hidden Valley Regional Park, home to a few mountain biking trail loops. The 3.6-mile Backcountry Loop is a pretty serious climb so be prepared to put in the effort for the reward of some great downhill stretches. The more moderate Perimeter Loop and Highland Trail offer less intense terrain for beginner and intermediate riders.

Located in Sparks, the Los Altos Trail Network offers challenging climbs and spectacular views by the names of Zipper West Loop and Jackrabbit. The packed dirt makes for an easier ride, but when the trail is wet, riding is almost impossible, so be prepared to climb a little higher and hike through more elevated surrounding areas.

For more mountain biking information and trails visit our Mountain Biking page.